THriving through COVID-19

Have you hit any walls yet? Personally, my family and I have had ups and downs in finding new rhythms, new ways of learning, connecting, etc. as we "quarantine," but I will spare you the details.

At this time, when stress and scarcity tempt us to have a surviving mentality, we need to actively reinforce a thriving orientation that focuses our sense of belonging to ourselves, family, communities, and general humanity. In so many ways, COVID-19 offers a potential planetary reboot, where from a species perspective, we have the opportunity to shift from a “me” to a “we” orientation.

At the Thrive Center, we research and draw on the latest psychological science to inform our understanding and vision of human thriving to not only promotes individual growth, but also encourage broader social flourishing.

To thrive is to grow in authenticity with and for others and for a greater purpose.

Foundational to thriving is being adaptive and navigating a good fit with one’s environment. For example, a plant thrives by continuously growing towards the sun and around obstacles in order to thrive. We are similar. Thriving is continual, adaptive growth—not towards the sun, but towards a prosocial and virtuous purpose beyond the self.

This moment in time has the potential to serve as a planetary pivot.

In order for this moment to shift all of us on a thriving trajectory, we need to re-order our own lives, our families, our communities, and our sense of responsibility to all of humanity and our planet. Such a shift will take intentionality and effort. We have produced resources to inform, inspire, and equip you to thrive and enable others to thrive during these trying times. We address key skills and resources for thriving, and offer a variety of practices and tips for cultivating your own strengths to remain agile and adaptive in these days.

We are grateful for the immense contributions in the psychological sciences of those who research various topics in positive psychology, neuropsychology, family sciences, applied developmental science, psychology of religion and spirituality, and contemplative neuroscience. Our aim is to bring to you the best of science that informs how to cultivate the good life—not just for ourselves, but our species and planet.

Thriving is not pollinic, nor is it a random potpourri of positivity. Thriving does not overlook the profound plight of many people. To thrive is deep living; it is authentic, vulnerable, connected, hopeful, courageous, joyful, generous, and vital. While we are spending less time commuting and some have more discretionary time than normal, please join us in a movement of thriving. Attend to your own personal growth with and for others.

With hope,

Dr. Pam King